JDS Handbook 20-21

A Guide for Students and Parents - TEAMS We are so excited that you are ready for our JDS TEAM! Being on a competition team takes a lot of dedication and hard work. We will do our part in providing a positive atmosphere and the training needed to become the best dancer you can be, we only ask that you bring with you a positive attitude. This is crucial to develop a deep devotion and strong commitment to dancing. Please read through this handbook/contract and sign ONLY if you are excited and willing to have FUN and ready to work HARD! JDS TEAM is an intermediate/advanced program for dancers ages 5 and up. Focus is on building excellent dance technique and performing skills. Classes can include Ballet, Jazz, Hip Hop, Tap, Rehearsal and Tumbling/Acro. These programs are designed to help dancers develop technical dance skills through a well-rounded dance education. It also teaches the important life skills of responsibility, self-discipline, dependability, good sportsmanship, friendship and teamwork. The combination of dance and life skills builds strong self-esteem. Dates and/or expenses listed in this handbook are subject to change. Please check the JDS Dancer emails each week for updates and Group Me. Key contact information for Jazz Dancer Studio: o Layton: 1274 Jack D Drive, Layton, UT 84041 o Draper Treehouse: 1101 E Draper Pkwy, Draper, UT 84020 o Draper Juan Diego HS: 300 Kimballs Lane, Draper, UT 84020 ● Studio Phone Number: 801-444-9046 ● Studio email: [email protected] ● Website: www.jdsutah.com or www.steppingstonekids.com ● Owner: Courtney Harrison ● Owner’s email: [email protected] ● Studio email: [email protected] ● Accounts email: [email protected] ● Facebook & Instagram: @jazzdancerstudio Key event dates for Jazz Dancer Studio: September 2nd • Start Date October 26-31st • Hogwarts Performance/rehearsal • Pro Teams Parent Show TBA • Intrigue Convention February 25-27 (ALL PRO Teams) • Hollywood Connection March 25-28 (ALL PRO Teams) • Company Teams Parent Show TBA • Dare to Dance Comp April 16-17th • Utah Dance Review April 30th-May 1st • Velocity San Jose (select Pro routines) May 7-9th • Spring Concerts TBA • Last Day of Class May 20th • Auditions May 24-28th
 JDS Closure Dates: September 7th • Labor Day • Fall Break October 15-18th • Thanksgiving Break November 25-29th • Winter Break December 21st –January 3rd • Martin Luther King January 18th • President’s Day February 15th • Spring Break (Layton) March 29- April 4th • Spring Break (Draper) April 5-11th • Memorial Day May 31st

FOR OUR DANCERS Congratulations! You have been accepted into the JDS Team Dancer Program. The first step to becoming a successful dancer is making a solid commitment to your classes, rehearsals, and performances. Strong technique is a key ingredient and class is where you develop that technique. Come to each class prepared to learn and without personal distractions. Class time is your chance to focus on yourself, so try to leave your concerns or worries at the studio door. True progress is made when you look at each class, rehearsal, or performance as an opportunity to become better at what you love to do. Dance full-out, stretch a little further, become more aware of your technique, and make the most of every class. The JDS Team Dancer program is a privilege that dancers and their parents must appreciate and respect. Participation in the program is restricted to dancers who are ready to make achieving their personal best a priority. There will be times when classes, rehearsals, or performances will be scheduled when your non-dance friends or family may be headed to the mall or the movies. We encourage dancers to be as dedicated to their academic studies as they are to their dance training. If your participation in this program affects your grades or the expectations and goals set by your parents, we cannot allow you to continue in the program. Program Benefits Our program focuses on educating young people to strive for their personal best in anything they want to accomplish. We achieve our goals for the program by offering young people the chance to: ● gain a sense of balance in life by managing their commitments to both dance and academics; ● participate in a physical activity that enhances understanding of the value of a healthy body; ● develop a sense of confidence when speaking or making a presentation in a public setting, which is also a great benefit in college or job interviews; ● work with mentors who are focused on the student's’ success inside and outside of the classroom; ● enjoy friendships that could last a lifetime and a sense of belonging to an extended family of fellow dancers, teachers, and parents; ● discover the results of hard work and determination; and ● develop a lifelong appreciation for the performing arts. In addition, making a commitment to the policies set forth in this handbook teaches our young people that there are boundaries that must be respected in order to succeed in the program.

FOR THE PARENTS: “WE’RE IN THIS TOGETHER” We believe that children’s success depends on the support of their parents or guardians. Because your commitment to the process makes an enormous difference, we encourage you to be a part of your child’s dance education. Our programs rely on a positive atmosphere and educational experience for our faculty and students and their parents. Cooperation between all parents is expected. Showing respect—for other parents, the students, and the faculty—makes an important impression on the children. You are a role model for your child about how to interact with others in a professional setting. Your child’s presence at all classes is imperative. The spirit of teamwork and the lesson of dedication are a big part of our studio’s educational process. Parents and teachers may look at a child’s learning from different perspectives. However, we believe they share a common goal: to ensure that every child receives the best possible training, both physically and mentally. Mutual respect among our faculty and our student’s parents provides the children with the ultimate care and education. Understanding Dance Education As a parent, you play an important role in supporting your child financially, but your emotional support is of equal—and perhaps even greater—value. Encourage your child to be the best that he or she can be regardless of what others may achieve. Dance is an individual art form and children need to be allowed to achieve at a pace that’s comfortable. No two students will progress at the same rate, even if they experience the exact same training. It’s important to encourage children to focus on themselves, give their all, and be satisfied with their own accomplishments. Dance education encompasses far more than technique and the steps your children learn. We believe the discipline of dance training gives young people a better understanding of commitment through learning, experiencing the spirit of teamwork, and discovering what they can accomplish through hard work. Our goal is to educate the minds, bodies, and souls of our students, teaching them the skills needed for a successful life, whether or not they stay involved in dance. You play an important role in supporting your child financially, but your emotional support is of equal—and perhaps even greater—value. Dos and Dont’s Some parents may compare their child’s progress or class placement to another child’s. Watch for this behavior in your children as well and encourage them to focus instead on their own accomplishments. Looking to other students for inspiration is good; however, making negative comparisons distracts children from focusing on becoming stronger dancers. In addition, speaking negatively about your child’s teachers, fellow students, or other parents in front of your child––or other students––could result in problems far beyond your original concerns. Often children will imitate a parent’s behavior with other adults or authority figures. Children learn important lessons from their teachers and parents, acquiring behavior patterns through their example. Our studio’s faculty takes that responsibility seriously. It’s our philosophy to encourage our students to feel, think, and act respectfully toward their peers, the adults in their lives, and themselves. If you have questions or concerns about your child’s dance education (such as progress or class placement), please discuss them with your child’s teacher or the director. Talking only to other parents can lead to misinformation and confusion. Please contact the studio office to set up an appointment; do not approach your child’s teacher or the director between or during classes or make contact outside of the studio. If you do request a conference, please listen carefully to what your child’s teachers have to say. They spend a significant amount of time with your child and offer expertise in the field of dance education.

CLASS DETAILS FOR YOUR DANCER Class or Choreography Placement The studio faculty meets regularly to discuss the student's progress and/or placement. It is our policy to offer appropriate opportunities to every child. Placement decisions are derived from many years of teaching experience. Often a child is placed in a particular group or class where he or she will feel confident, in order to promote the development of self- esteem. Some dancers who are placed in a higher level become discouraged, only to lose their passion for dance. Others respond to the challenge of being in a class with dancers who are more proficient by pushing themselves to work harder. Placement is highly individual and the factors that go into the decision are complex. The director and/or faculty are available to discuss class and choreography placement with parents and dancers. Please feel free to request an appointment with the office and a meeting will be scheduled. It is our policy to meet with each student and his or her parents at the same time unless otherwise specified. We ask that parents refrain from discussing class placement issues with other parents or questioning the faculty between classes. Each family will receive a written evaluation on their student 2x’s during this dance season.. This evaluation is meant to help us “ALL” be on the same page with individual improvement and progress for your student. The will receive an eval in ballet, jazz and ballet. Class placement of students is highly individual and the factors that go into the decision are Classes All dancers are expected to attend their regularly scheduled classes in addition to all rehearsals and performances. Any team member with poor attendance will be dismissed from the program. Dancers will receive a class schedule in August. The program includes ballet, jazz, tumbling, as well as choreography. Some Team members may also be expected to participate in additional classes, including Tap, Hip Hop, Acro, master classes or conventions. All dancers must show respect for their teachers at all times. Inappropriate behavior could result in dismissal from the program. Rehearsals All rehearsals are dedicated to choreography or “cleaning” the choreography. A dancer who misses a rehearsal holds back the progress of the entire group. Repeating the choreography from a previous session for those who were absent takes up valuable rehearsal time, which could result in a performance that is not up to par. When we clean choreography, we may also change it. Dancers who miss a cleaning session may not be properly prepared for an upcoming performance and could end up disappointing themselves, their team, or the studio. An important lesson taught through our Company Dancer program is the value of teamwork. Dancers who miss a rehearsal because of a non-emergency circumstance are letting their fellow dancers down in many ways. We expect parents to nurture the values that dance education teaches; therefore, you should never encourage your child to let the group down. If parents have a conflict that prevents them from taking their children to a scheduled rehearsal, we will be more than happy to suggest transportation with other parents from the same group. Our goal is to help all children make their commitments. Dancers: True progress is made when you look at each class, rehearsal, or performance as an opportunity to become better at what you love to do.

Rehearsal Schedules and Information Rehearsals are an important part of the commitment to the Company Program. All dancers are expected to work hard and arrive early enough to warm up and be ready to go when the door opens. Please check the individual class sheet for details regarding this year’s schedule per team. Additional rehearsals may be scheduled at the discretion of the teacher/choreographer. All dancers are required to participate. We may have extra rehearsals on Saturday through the months of January- March if needed. Respect Respect for the studio, its teachers, and its choreographers is essential. Guidelines for behavior ● Leave any personal negativity at the door when entering the studio. ● Arrive at least 10 minutes before the start of every class or rehearsal. ● Proper dancewear and shoes are a must in every class and rehearsal. ● Choreography must never be questioned. ● Never attempt to contact teachers or choreographers at home. All contact must be made through the office. ● Finish every class or choreography session with a thank-you to the teacher or choreographer. ● When wearing your studio jacket or other apparel to non-dance events, be sure that the activities and your behavior reflect positively on you and the studio. Appreciate the Critique Listen to each correction given, whether it’s directed to you or another dancer. A correction is an honor; it shows you how much a teacher cares about your progress as a dancer. Always say thank you when a teacher or choreographer offers you constructive criticism. Nothing can stop those students who apply themselves in every class and appreciate their teachers’ knowledge and experience. Discipline Policy In order to maintain a happy, healthy, professional environment, students are taught the importance of being a part of the group. We encourage students to have respect for other students, teachers and staff, and studio property, and we foster the development of good habits and compliance with rules of conduct. Our staff and faculty are trained to use constructive techniques of discipline to maintain class control and handle individual misbehavior. ● Children who exhibit unacceptable behavior or attitudes are told what is wrong and directed to a positive alternative approach or behavior. ● If a child strikes another child, the two are respectfully separated and each is asked to explain what happened. They are then asked to help solve the problem, talk to each other, and reconcile with one another. ● Children who are disruptive will be respectfully asked to stop the behavior. If the behavior is repeated, they will be reminded of it and told how it affects others. If the disruption continues, the children involved will be asked to sit down for a short period of time (usually three to five minutes) before rejoining the class. ● If a child’s misbehavior continues to disrupt the class, the parent or guardian will be called to pick up the child. ● No phones or internet are allowed before, during, between, or after class. Students that use their phones for inappropriate internet use, texting or bullying will be called into a meeting with their parent and Courtney. Discipline will be probation or even dismissal. Arrival and Departure We encourage students to arrive 10 minutes before class starts. When arriving at the studio students should wait quietly in the waiting area and be 100% prepared to start class when the door opens. For their safety, children under age 10 should be picked up immediately after class. Students ages 10 and older must be picked up no more than 5 minutes after their class is completed. Attendance All students are expected to attend their regularly scheduled classes. Each class offers a step forward in the educational process. A missed class could leave a child one step behind the other students. During the months of October-December and March through June, choreography for the Concert will be taught and rehearsed. It is important for children to feel completely confident with the choreography for the Christmas and year-end performance. Missing class during this period could result in frustration for the students and their teachers and classmates.

Tardiness Dance is a physical activity that requires the body to be warmed up in order to execute movement safely. Late students miss the proper warm-up and/or barre and therefore may sustain injury. Students who arrive more than 10 minutes late may be asked to observe class for reasons of personal safety. We charge a $10 fee for every 5 min you are tardy to pick up your child. PLEASE BE PUNCTUAL.. We all have other commitments we are late for when you are late. Lost and Found Please mark all dancewear, shoes, and personal items with your child's name. We will make every effort to locate and return lost items; however, we cannot be responsible for any items that your child brings to class. Illness - Please see our COVID document for more info. Colds, flu, and other contagious diseases occur frequently and spread easily among children. To help protect your own child’s health and to minimize the possibility of contagion at studio, please keep your child at home if you observe any of the following symptoms: ● Nasal discharge that is green or yellow ● Complaints of ear pain ● Consistent cough ● Severe sore throat ● Eyes that are pink, burning, itching, or producing discharge ● Diarrhea or vomiting ● Fever If these symptoms or other conditions deemed contagious are observed in your child during a class, you will be called to pick up your child immediately. When your child has a fever, please keep him/her at home until the temperature returns to normal. If there are any lingering signs of illness, such as glassy or watery eyes, listlessness, and drowsiness, please keep your child at home. This will help to ensure that the illness has passed and that your child will be well enough to resume class activities the following week.

IMAGE AND ATTIRE Image The children and parents involved in the JDS Team Dancer program participate in many outside activities, all of which reflect Jazz Dancer Studio philosophy. Please keep the following in mind: ● We never speak negatively about teachers, dancers, or parents from other studios. ● We never create conflict with the directors or judges of events in which we participate. ● We never recruit dancers from other studios. ● The studio director handles all communication with the directors of our outside activities. ● No parent or dancer may call or question the directors of any event. If you have a concern, please contact the director of our studio. ● Dancers and parents should be properly dressed for all events. Do not arrive at or leave any event in your dancewear; always wear a cover-up. ● Go out there and show the audience how much you love to dance! Dress Code Requirements ● Any dancer not dressed accordingly, will be sent home to change or asked to observe class. This will be counted as an absence. ● No dangly jewelry is to be worn. ● All shoes must be in excellent condition for competitions and performances. ● Due to limited restroom space, changing between classes is not allowed. Please plan accordingly. ● BALLET CLASS – Any Black leotard, pink tights, pink ballet shoes (Ballet shoes are your choice, leather or canvas, we recommend the Bloch Synchrony Ballet Shoe and Body Wrappers seamed tights are more durable. Hair in a bun or secured tightly and slicked back. NO EXCEPTIONS! No baggy clothing over the top of leo and tights. ● JAZZ CLASS & REHEARSAL – Pirouette Shoe (you can order pirouette shoes thru the studio or on your own). Rehearsals please wear all black and black bikers or leggings. Jazz class can be any style dancewear. No baggy clothing. There is no time for changing between classes so please have your dancer wear ballet attire and then layer on top if they want. ● COMPETITION – ALL TEAMS except Xcite, Xpress, Express Company, Tiny Company and Petite Company will wear a pirouette shoe for competition. If your team is doing a Hip Hop routine you will be asked to buy a certain style shoe for this routine. If you team is doing a Ballet or Tap routine they will need NEW Bloch Synchrony Ballets and Body Wrapper seamed tights for comp and full shank tap shoes. This will be sent home in your weekly email. ● HIP HOP – Any clothing but MUST have tennis shoes for Hip Hop!! ● TAP – Any clothing but MUST have tap shoes! Full shank tap shoes are best, not split sole. Studio Store Jazz Dancer Studio also offers dancewear and shoes for individual purchase at any time during the dance season. Included is a FULL order form, here are a few quick highlights of our most popular items. Orders are placed on the 5th of each month if you are needing any items please have them placed and paid for before this time. ITEM CHILD ADULT Ballet Shoes $20 $20 Pink Tights $15 $15 Tap Shoes $25 $25 Pirouette Shoe $20 $20

Discount Dancewear Jazz Dancer Studio makes it easy for parents and students to save $ as you go. Use code TP47234 when shopping on www.discountdance.com to give a kickback to the studio. Dollars awarded by Discount Dancewear will go towards studio improvements or scholarship opportunities. We want to help SAVE you $. However, we do carry a limited stock of items at the studio for your convenience. Additional Shoe Requirements Additional shoe styles may be required at competition due to routine choices. This will be noted in your weekly emails. It is recommended that each dancer should have two pairs of each kind of shoe, one for class and one for performances. JDS Team dancers are required to wear appropriate shoes for all classes and rehearsals. Make sure shoes are clean and polished for each performance. Tuition and Other Expenses Tuition Full monthly tuition is due by the 5th of each month. Tuition is paid through automatic withdrawal from your credit or debit card account. Tuition will be charged directly to your specified VISA, MasterCard or Discover. We will accept cash, Venmo, or money orders for tuition payment if received by the 1st of the month. Pay in the office and a receipt will be given to you for all transactions. A $10 late fee will automatically be added to the amount of those accounts with an inactive or declined card. In the event payment under this agreement is not made at the time and in the manner required, the undersigned agrees to pay all costs of collection, including court costs, attorney fees, including charges and collection agency fee which would be 35% of the balance assigned, with or without suit. JDS DOES NOT accept checks except for in a situation of a fundraiser. A $25 returned check fee will be added to all checks returned due to insufficient funds. Please note: tuition is based on the season regardless of how many weeks are in a given month. Payment Plan Please see individual team details for class tuition rates. Each \"JDS team\" will have their entire year organized into a payment plan. This payment plan will include all costume, conventions, entry fees etc. It will not include each month’s tuition, the first of the year order, team pictures, extra tights or shoes, parent entry fees to competition, additional party fees or gifts. The payment plan will be divided into 9 installments. It will be debited on the 3rd Monday of each month September-May. If the card is declined a $10 late fee will be added. Team payments – There are 3 options to choose from regarding Team Payments. Monthly Team payments (7-10 payments depending on the team), 2 payment installments (first due September 11th and second due January 21st), Full Team payment (Due Sept. 11th). Pro teams team payment system will look different this year. Please refer to your payment information. Please note that all entry fees include an additional surcharge to cover expenses associated with the studio’s participation in competitions, including mailings, entry processing, office staff, expenses for teachers to attend all events, music editing, etc. The Payment Plan is NON refundable. If in any case a student drops the year mid seasons ALL expenses must first be current. The TEAM Payment plan is debited on the 3rd Monday of noted months. See calendar for exact dates.

Costumes Costume payments are the sole responsibility of the parent or guardian. Team dancers perform in lyrical, jazz , contemporary, ballet and tumbling. With an option to be a part of a hip hop routine. 1-5 costumes are required. The typical cost of a costume is $120 to $160. Costumes are figured into your company payment plan. Make Up Kit Every Team dancer is required to have a JDS Team make up kit. The cost is $50. We will use the same JAM Cosmetic Kit. If you need items outside our order period you can order at http:// www.jamcosmetics.net Summer Program The Summer Intensive Program is a mandatory activity for all Company dancers. Master and guest teachers, along with the Jazz Dancer Studio staff will offer weekly summer classes. More details will follow in January. Classes will take place at the studio. Fund-Raising The studio may offer optional fundraisers for dancers to apply towards their years expenses. Dancers receive the proceeds from 3 of their own fund-raising. One fundraiser each year will dedicated to studio improvement or scholarship fund. Studio Sponsorship We offer the option to bring in a studio sponsor. If you bring in a studio sponsor you get 40% of their sponsorship towards your dance account. There are different levels of sponsorships available. Please inquire with the office to receive a sponsorship flyer and let Courtney know if you have any questions. Great exposure to local businesses and an easy way to make some money towards your studio account! POLICIES AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION ● Please ask a teacher or office staff is Miss Courtney is available. If it something that is NOT urgent she will contact you in a timely manner. JDS office staff is amazing but they do not make decisions for the dancers or studio. ● Use of the studio telephone is limited to emergencies only. ● Parents and students should never interrupt a class in session. If you need to pull your dancer early from class please notify the office or Courtney ahead of time and they will make the necessary arrangements with the teacher. ● Only water is allowed in the studios. No food, drinks, or gum. ● We love babies and young children and appreciate the chance to meet our students’ siblings. However, our priority is the safety of every child on the studio premises. Children must be supervised at all times and are not free to run around in the classroom areas, parking lot or the yard at either location. ● Please do not dispose of dirty diapers inside the studio. Large trash cans outside the studio are better suited for such disposal. Please bag them before disposing. ● No cell phones or computers may be used during class time. (This means no emailing, Internet use, or text messaging.) If this rule is broken the teacher will remove the phone and a parent will have to pick it up. ● Students and parents are restricted from contacting teachers by phone, email, text messages, etc. All communication with teachers or the director must go through the Jazz Dancer Studio office. ● Never speak negatively about teachers, students, or parents from other studios. ● All students must show respect for their teachers at all times. Inappropriate behavior could result in dismissal from the studio. Termination of Enrollment In certain circumstances, when it is in the best interest of one or more students, it may be necessary for the studio owner or director to terminate a student’s enrollment. Every effort will be made to correct a problematic situation before terminating enrollment. Reasons for termination of enrollment include the following: ● Disruptive or dangerous behavior by students or their parents ● Abuse of other children, staff, or property ● Inability to keep account at the studio current

Commitment This is a one-year commitment (August 2019 thru the end of May 2020). (Some Advanced teams thru Nationals in July) that will be a wonderful learning and growing opportunity for each dancer. Dancers will develop many positive skills. Parents and Dancers must be willing to make a firm commitment to the team by attending all classes, performances, rehearsals, competitions and workshops. The rules and guidelines are designed to insure each dancer has a successful and positive experience. If dancers must miss class for any reason, please call the studio and let the teacher know in advance. Dancers may not miss their choreography class the week prior to performance or competition. Dancers who miss class will be spaced out of numbers for performing and competitions. Student and Parent Use of Social Media Use of Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, blogging, and other online social-media vehicles is commonplace. This policy is intended to provide Jazz Dancer Studio students and parents with guidelines to eliminate any confusion concerning the use of social media. ● You DO NOT have permission to reveal any information that compromises Jazz Dancer Studio. By that we mean you are forbidden to share personal information about the director, other students or their families, or idol that is proprietary and/or confidential to them or Jazz Dancer Studio. ● Students and parents should neither claim nor imply that they are speaking on behalf of Jazz Dancer Studio. ● Never post anything that could compromise the self-esteem of students who attend Jazz Dancer Studio. ● If you post videos of class or rehearsals, don’t post any choreography in its entirety; Jazz Dancer Studio owns the copyright to all choreography taught at the studio. ● Respect the law, including those laws governing defamation, discrimination, harassment, and copyright and fair use. As stated in this handbook, parents and students should never post negative comments about other studios or teachers. Also, please do not post negative comments about studio activities such as competitions, conventions, and performances or about the directors of those events. ● Ensure that your social networking conduct is consistent with all of the policies contained in this handbook. Emergency Evacuation Although we have never experienced an emergency evacuation at the studio, we are prepared for such a circumstance. Emergency evacuation routes are posted in all classrooms and in the lobby. Students are to evacuate quietly and walk in single file as quickly as possible to the designated area, where teachers will check roll. Students and teachers are to return to classrooms and buildings when the all-clear signal is given. Parking Safety The studio is home to children of all ages. Please enter and exit with extreme caution. Never park your vehicle in any area that is not a designated parking space. Please also see our COVID drop off and pick up regulations. Dropping off and picking up ● Please be sure to talk to your child about the safety of staying inside until their ride comes in to get them. ● Small children need to be picked up inside the lobby after class unless it is a class that we walk out at the end of the class. Weather Cancellations Studio closures due to severe weather conditions will be announced by noon on that day. Notifications of weather cancellations will be emailed, posted on the website and the Facebook page, and announced on the studio’s outgoing voicemail message. We will also use our class presidents as a phone tree. STAYING INFORMED We work hard to make the dance experience organized and fun. Keeping you informed is one of our primary goals. Please read all weekly emails and other studio information. Dates and schedules are also posted in our Google Calendar and can be synced to your devices. If you have any questions regarding the information distributed, we encourage you to contact the studio at 801-444-9046. We answer email on a daily basis, except on weekends. Feel free to email questions to the office at [email protected] or [email protected]

COMMUNITY PERFORMANCES Performance Opportunities Jazz Dancer Studio Teams are a lot of work and a lot of fun. Team Dancers perform many routines at numerous outside performances, studio concerts and competitions. All performances are important steps to becoming the Team Dancer that we are aspiring to be. We understand that this is a busy season and there may be conflicts, but if there is any way to rearrange schedules to be to our extra performances we would appreciate it! These types of performances are what get us ready for our season. We put in a LOT of work to try to get extra performance opportunities for our teams. They are a lot of fun for our dancers and it teaches them that there is more to dancing than just \"competing.\" The experience they gain from a community performance matters to us just as much as the competition experience. Please make them a priority. We try to give you as much notice as we can when chances like these come up. The benefits we see in our kids from doing community appearances are worth the trouble of scheduling and arranging around them. Call time Policy YOU NEED TO BE ON TIME! If a dancer is more than 10 minutes late for a call time, then it is under the director's digression if that dancer will be allowed to perform. When dancers miss the warm up and practice time it throws off the demeanor of the team and the overall performance. It is unfair to the team and families that planned accordingly to be on time. We understand that life happens, but we need you to do everything in your power to arrive by or BEFORE the call time. Communication is key. Please be sure to contact Courtney if you might be late for any reason. Unexcused late arrivals will most likely NOT be able to perform. A big part of dance training includes learning through performance. Although performance opportunities can help prepare some students for a possible career in dance, they also contribute to children’s success in non-dance activities. The experience helps build self-esteem and confidence, which can result in better in-school presentations, improved social skills, and strong college and job interview skills. The rehearsal process is a tremendous learning experience as well. It helps the children develop retention skills, and by working with their classmates on a group performance, they learn the positive aspects of working as a team to create the best end result. Costumes Teams will use their competition costumes for MOST concert performances. Some teams may need to purchase costumes for Ballet or asked to wear something specific for Hip Hop, Tap or Acro. These costs will be minimal and emailed home by February 1st. Concert Tickets Christmas Performance Fee: There is no performance fee for dancers but tickets to the concert will be sold to spectators. This performance is a Benefit concert and all proceeds go to charities in need at Christmas time. Spring Concert Fee: Every “performer” will be required to pay a “concert fee” as part of the Performance Package for the Spring Concert in May. This fee covers the auditorium and concert costs and is included in your monthly team payments. NO TICKETS ARE SOLD AT SPRING CONCERT. Admission is completely FREE to spectators.

The Competition Experience For dedicated dancers, the satisfaction of an excellent performance is all the motivation they need to work harder to continue improving. Don’t judge how you feel about your performance by the size of the trophy or the color of the medal. The Focus Is Not Simply on Competition It is our goal to instill in our students a passion for performing rather than merely the desire to win awards. Team dancers have performance opportunities other than competitions. They perform within the community as well. We believe the lessons learned through concert performances are as valuable as the competition experience. Our solid reputation for quality reflects our attitude toward competition and our goal to develop in each student a genuine respect for dance as an art form. We consider students’ participation in competitions not merely part of their dance training; it’s also an important part of how we influence their growth as people. With the right focus, the experience gained in competition can be an excellent source of self-confidence. If the dancers feel good about a performance and understand that they become better each time they go onstage, they are truly growing through the competition experience. Hitting that stage and doing the best they can is what it’s all about; whether they win––or which award they win––is secondary. Through participation in competitions, we hope to instill in our students an appreciation for other dancers and studios. We are not out to beat anyone; instead, we hope to motivate both students and faculty by exposing them to the highest caliber of talent available. Only then can we produce the best dancers and teachers possible. For us, competition is an education! General Performance and Competition Policies We believe the lessons learned through concert performances are just as valuable as the competition experience. Performances and competitions are your opportunity to show the world the results of your dedication and hard work. Here’s what you can do to make the most of this opportunity. ● Arrive at performances at least one hour before the scheduled time unless otherwise advised by your teachers. ● Be sure you are properly warmed up. ● Present yourself in a professional manner, with costumes pressed, shoes cleaned, and all accessories accounted for. ● Treat competitors and teachers from other studios with respect. ● Treat the directors and staff of the competition with respect. ● Keep your area of the dressing rooms clean and never bring food or drink where it is prohibited. ● Wear your studio uniform to all competition events and during the award presentations. Attendance before competition/convention I have listed the competitions and conventions for the entire year. Dancers are expected and required to be in class the week before each competition or convention. This is in the best interest of your dancer and their team. Competition Scheduling When planning a competition weekend, be prepared for performances on Friday and Saturday (possibly a Thursday for solos, duos and trios and Sunday if we travel out of state). Once a schedule is prepared you may find that you do not have to attend the entire weekend, but you must be prepared to do so. There are no exceptions. Approximately two weeks prior to the event, the competition company will supply our office with an itinerary. Schedules will be emailed to all dancers and their parents as soon as they are received. We pride ourselves on being an organized, professional studio and we do not request changes to the dance competition schedule (except in the case of emergencies).

Competition Critiques At many of the competition events, the studios receive performance critiques from the judges. These critiques are the property of the studio and will be played for the dancers during rehearsal or class time. Soloists will hear their critiques during their rehearsal sessions. Award Presentations When presented with an award, always show professionalism by thanking the person who presents you with the award. Unsportsmanlike behavior will not be tolerated. JDS Pride Jazz Dancer Studio members ALWAYS show their studio pride by attending award ceremonies wearing their studio sweats. Parents get involved too. Nothing like looking out into the audience when you are a little nervous to see a sea of support. Audience Etiquette Enthusiastic applause is encouraged; however, it is never appropriate to scream or yell out names at a competition event or in any other performance venue. When in an auditorium, remain seated whenever dancers are performing onstage. PLEASE discuss this with your family and friends that may attend and event. Independent Entries No dancer may compete in any competition as an independent entry without the permission of the studio director. Cash Scholarships Soloists will receive a studio credit for the amount of any cash scholarship awarded. It will be applied to lessons, costumes, entry fees, or other expenses related to dance training. Cash scholarships awarded to dancers who perform duos, trios, or ensemble pieces will be deposited in the Company Dancer program treasury to be utilized for master classes, guest choreographers, and other activities. Know When You’re Ready to do a solo Take a close, honest look at yourself and your dancing. You’re ready to solo when: ● you have made a serious commitment to yourself and to dance; ● you’re willing to work on your own to spend extra time on your solo; ● you are willing to take your solo apart count by count and make sure you know what needs to happen technically (where your arms are on every count, what the best lines are, and so on); ● you are willing to rehearse your solo full-out all the time in order to build stamina; ● you are technically ready; ● you realize that your obligation to your fellow dancers is priority; and ● you are aware that solo rehearsal time will never interfere with group rehearsals, classes, or performances. You’re not ready to solo when: ● you want to do a solo because your friend is doing one; ● you want to do a solo because your parents want you to do it; or ● you do not have the time to make the commitment. Costume Common Sense ● Place costumes in a garment bag for travel. ● Carry hats in a hatbox or container to prevent them from damage. ● Hang and press costumes before each performance. ● Place your name in all costumes and shoes. ● Remove all costumes from their garment bags immediately following the competition to be sure that they are not wrinkled for the next event. ● Check seams, trim, headpieces, etc. for repairs that must be made prior to the next competition.

SOLO/PRIVATE LESSONS & COVERGIRL INFORMATION: SOLO/DUO/TRIO INFORMATION DIRECTOR - JESSICA HOLKER (Draper) JASON PICKETT (Layton) • Jessica and Jason will be over-seeing our Solo/Duo/Trio program.• If you would like her direction here are the details: 1. Jessica or Jason will help your dancer find a choreographer that suits their style choice and age/level. 2. She will arrange the first meeting with the choreographer and dancer. 3. She will watch the solo after it is finished and make sure it is a good fit and will compete well throughout the year. 4. She will help find someone to help clean the solo throughout the year. 5. Solos must be taught and finished by September 30th. 6. Solo/Duo/Trio fee paid to Jessica or Jason - $50 CHOREOGRAPHER/CHOREOGRAPHY INFO ● Most choreographers will charge $250-$500 for a solo/duo/trio. Duos and Trios are sometimes closer to $600 depending on the choreographer. ● Choreographers should work with the dancer 2-6 times until the routine is finished. Their fee should include all the choreography as well as the music cut. ● Make sure to video the choreography each time you meet with the choreographer and have your dancer practice the material before they meet with the choreographer again. ● Don’t go too long meeting with the choreographer between each time. COSTUME IDEAS/ CLEANING ● Jessica or Jason will help with costume ideas. We also have Miss Natalie that will help. Miss Kathryn is available to sew solo costumes. My suggestion is to have your costume idea into Miss Kathryn by the end of the summer. We can also order from my costume companies as well. ● Jessica or Jason will arrange someone she feels is best to clean your routine. Depending on the teacher this will cost $10-$50 per hour. I suggest setting up a regular cleaning time once per week until your first competition. I would also suggest running your solo at least one day for about 30 minutes on your own each week. COMPETITION FEES ● Competition fees are between $65-$125 per competition. We will send a list of competitions and information in December. ● Convention competitions must be entered by the studio. All other competitions are entered by you. ● If you have already arranged your solo with someone that is great. This is for those that need direction. It is always best to get solos started and finished by the end of summer and then start working and cleaning them right away. ● If you would like help from Jessica or Jason please sign-up today. Please see the Solo, Duo, Trio contract in the parent portal.

THE CONVENTION and WORKSHOP EXPERIENCE Conventions and workshops are great ways to help your dancer do a little more. Dancers need to never stop learning and growing. Trying something new, being exposed to more will help your dancer to strive to be the best dancer they can be. Being a part of a competition team we want to keep the eye on the prize. ART of DANCE! What to pack: ● If we are taking a ballet class, which you probably will be, make sure to bring a black leotard and pink tights along with ballet slippers. ● For hip hop, bring your tennis shoes or sneakers and baggy sweats. Treat hip hop like any other style of dance, even if it truly isn’t your style. You wouldn’t walk into ballet class with your hair down, a big baggy sweatshirt, and sweatpants that say “Kiss It” on the butt, would you? You will look just as odd if you walk into hip hop with your hair in a bun, leotard and tights still on, and barefoot. Bring those warm-up pants and t-shirts with you, and dress like a gangsta. This is one time where nobody will care! ● For any other class (i.e. jazz, lyrical, tap), wear whatever you want within reason. Most girls wear biker’s tighter fitting shorts (AKA not gym shorts!) along with a dance-top. ● Remember your footwear. Bring you ballet slippers for ballet, tap shoes for tap, jazz shoes for jazz, and sneakers for hip hop. For lyrical, a lot of girls either go barefoot or they wear footundeez (they really get eaten up, convention is generally on a carpet floor) I have also seen some people wear socks to classes, although some instructors do not allow it. ● Bring all of your hair supplies that you may/will need. This includes a brush, a comb, bobby pins, hair clips, hair nets, hair ties, hair gel, etc. Whatever you may need to style your hair, bring it! ● If you wear everyday makeup, feel free to bring that. ● Bring a lunch or money to buy lunch! You will need you fuel throughout the day with all of the classes that you are going to be taking. Most conventions only give you half an hour to an hour for lunch, so I recommend bringing a lunch rather than wasting your time trying to find someplace to eat. You may want to pack small snacks in your dance bag that you can eat throughout the day if you feel like you need a quick burst of energy. Some good snack ideas include fruits and veggies like grapes or carrots, crackers, power bars, etc. Also, don’t forget that water! You will be thirsty if you are working hard enough! ● Overnight items such as pajamas, toothbrush, toothpaste, hair brush, etc. Simple things like that that you would need if you were staying the night at a friend’s house. Tips for classes: ● Try to stand in the front of the room so that the choreographer will more likely notice you. Treat your classes as if they were auditions. (Actually, it is an audition because you are always in the audition process for scholarships) ● Force yourself to pay attention to the choreographer and what they are saying and doing. By watching and listening carefully, you are more likely to pick up the details in the choreography and better technique. These little details are what will set you apart from the rest of the group. ● Come dressed appropriately for class ● Try not to watch the dancers around you, but instead focus on yourself and the way that you are dancing. Try to know the steps before your group is called up to perform. If you do happen to forget, watch your fellow dancers and mimic the steps until you find your place in the routine, and try to pick it back up. ● Turn your cell phone off!! ● NO talking during classes. It really bugs the teachers and it can be very distracting to the dancers that are actually trying to learn something. If you must talk, wait until the time is appropriate (i.e. not when you are learning a piece) and then talk in a whisper voice. ● There will be a lot of people in the room and you will more than likely be crowded. So if you get hit or kicked, try not to take it personally. If you do end up slapping somebody, wait until the routine is over and then go up to the person and apologize. ● Try your best and try not to get frustrated when you mess up. You will not likely come out of a convention with perfect technique and ten times better than when you went in, but hopefully you learned a thing or two and gained some experience. ● Expect to work hard and sweat a lot.